1836 P$1 Name on Base, Judd-60 Original, Pollock-65, R.1, PR62
NGC. Silver. Plain Edge. Die Alignment I (Liberty's head
opposite DO). Struck in late December 1836, these pieces are
recognizable by the diagonal die scratch above the eagle's wing
that points toward the AT of STATES. On this coin it is especially
prominent, undoubtedly a combination of an early striking after the
die was scratched and the high grade of this piece.
The proof surfaces of this piece are pronounced on this coin. It
makes one wonder about the reason these dollars were struck in
proof format. The proofing process was uncommon for U.S. coins in
1836. It does, however, make for an impressive coin when such
pieces are encountered. The only conclusion we can come to is that
Mint Director Patterson must have wanted to gain acceptance of the
new dollars with the general public, and striking them as proofs
would further enhance their overall appearance and desirability.
For collectors, however, the proof status of these coins has caused
confusion over the past 150 years. Very few coins intended for
circulation have ever been struck in proof format. On the other
hand, almost all patterns were struck as proofs. Gobrecht dollars,
like patterns, also had small mintages. As a result, for many years
Gobrecht dollars have been considered patterns, when in fact only
the 1838 coins are actual patterns.
The late-December strikings are usually found circulated since they
were deposited in a local bank. This piece is certainly the
exception. As mentioned, the fields are deeply reflective, and they
enhance the rich, variegated blue, rose, and golden colors that are
seen on each side. Fully struck in all areas. The Queller piece is
identifiable by a tiny check-mark die flaw on the face of Liberty.
Seldom seen finer and worthy of consideration by the advanced
collector of 19th century silver dollars.From The Queller Family Collection of Silver Dollars. (PCGS# 11225)